Ask the expert: Notice periods
There is no maximum notice period for employment contracts, though six months for senior staff is common. Employees can negotiate or reject proposed changes, though employers rarely sue for breach of contract if notice periods aren’t honored, as damages are difficult to prove.
Old school tie network rises to the top
More than half of leading UK figures in politics, law, medicine, business and journalism were privately educated, according to research by The Sutton Trust. The proportion has barely fallen since 1987, despite private schools educating just 7 percent of children, highlighting how school attendance at age 11 significantly impacts life chances and access to top professions.
A smile a day boosts customer satisfaction
A friendly “good morning” delivered with a genuine smile significantly boosts customer satisfaction, with 68% of customers ranking it as their preferred greeting. A survey reveals that tone and demeanor matter as much as words, with customers able to detect insincerity.
Soaring childcare costs keeps mums at home
High childcare costs prevent most mothers from returning to work despite wanting to, with parents spending an average of £5,788 yearly. While 73% of mums wish to resume work after maternity leave, only 25% actually do, as expenses make employment financially unviable for many families.
Brown disappoints equality campaigners
The Fawcett Society has criticized Prime Minister Brown’s cabinet reshuffle for reducing female representation from eight to five members, arguing it overlooks capable women despite some progress including the first female Home Secretary appointment.
Postal workers strike against job cuts and pay
Postal workers strike against Royal Mail over pay and job cuts, with over 95 percent participation in the first industrial action in more than a decade. The Communication Workers Union is demanding better pay and protection against modernization plans.
Businesses urged to plan for disasters
Following recent severe flooding in England, businesses are urged to develop disaster contingency plans. Business Link offers a free online guide covering risk assessment, appropriate insurance, employee training, and recovery strategies to minimize disruption and protect business continuity.
HR tip: Searching employees
Employee searches require clear contractual authorization or reasonable theft suspicion, and must be conducted with permission in private by same-gender staff. Without consent, employers risk assault lawsuits; refusal may justify disciplinary action only if search rights are contractually established.
The benefits of employee health benefits
Employee benefits like private medical insurance and cash plans can significantly reduce sickness absence and improve attendance. When properly communicated and structured, these benefits enhance employee morale and productivity while managing occupational sick pay costs.
HR interim managers soar ahead as confidence reaches new high
HR interim managers report record confidence levels, with 96% in the HR function noting increased employer confidence compared to the previous year. A Boyden Interim Management survey reveals that interim professionals are optimistic about business progress on equality, environmental, and age-related issues.
Relocation: What is the real cost?
Employee relocation costs extend beyond direct expenses like moving and salary packages. Employers must also consider the emotional impact on employees and their families, as inadequate support can lead to premature returns or resignations, making professional relocation services essential for success.
Colborn’s Corner: Up in smoke
England’s new smoking ban takes effect, aligning with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, practical enforcement challenges loom as businesses question whether high-performing employees and senior staff will actually comply with workplace smoking restrictions.
Taking the wheel of fleet management. By Louise Druce
Fleet management is increasingly becoming an HR responsibility, but managing vehicles requires navigating complex legislation, safety regulations, and policy enforcement. Without proper policies on driver conduct, vehicle use, and compliance checks, companies face serious legal risks including potential prosecution under corporate manslaughter laws.
Tuesday afternoon is the new Friday
Tuesday afternoons see a surge in employees secretly job hunting at work, with the average person spending over eight minutes browsing recruitment sites. Research shows two-thirds get caught by their boss, while some disguise their activity with fake spreadsheets.
Staff less satisfied than five years ago
New research shows 40% of large organisation staff say their workplaces have become less satisfying over five years. Despite frequent employee surveys, companies often implement outdated management practices and excessive communication measures that worsen job satisfaction instead of improving it.
Blackberry and mobile communication fuels holiday blues
Most workers keep their phones and mobile devices on during holidays, with over half experiencing stress about work before even leaving. A study reveals that traditional vacation relaxation has been replaced by work-related worry, with benefits lasting only three days for most employees.
Bosses urged to help smokers quit
The Trades Union Congress urges employers to support staff with quit-smoking programs ahead of the July 1 workplace smoking ban. Rather than banning cigarette breaks, bosses should offer cessation aids like nicotine patches and counseling to help employees succeed.
Stress management is a two-way process. By Annie Lawler
Effective stress management requires a shared commitment between employers and employees to foster a workplace culture that prioritizes wellbeing. When implemented properly, stress management policies reduce absenteeism and improve retention, while addressing the legal responsibilities employers have for employee health.
Ask the expert: Payment for KIT days
Employees on maternity leave are entitled to payment for Keeping in Touch (KIT) days, though the amount must be agreed between employer and employee. While regulations anticipate these days will be paid, disputes can arise over what constitutes reasonable compensation, especially regarding partial days and childcare costs.
People power: Leading project management. By Louise Druce
HR professionals increasingly lead organizational change projects because they possess the people skills and leadership abilities to manage complex transformations while keeping employees engaged and motivated. Their softer skills in communication, influencing, and conflict resolution complement technical project management knowledge, making them well-suited to navigate mergers, technology integration, and other business changes.
